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Tuesday, November 13, 2012

Things have looked a little different around here lately, and in case you're wondering why there has been little action on the sewing front, I thought I better let you know that I've escaped from my sewing room. My husband and I have crossed the Pacific Ocean and flew into New York City just before hurricane Sandy blew in. Hurricane Sandy was so very devastating for so many. Fortunately we were in a safe area, never even lost power. We were the lucky ones.

The purpose of our trip was for my husband to run the NYC marathon - something that he has been training for for many years, but particularly the last 12 months. Of course we were disappointed that the marathon was cancelled but understand and concur with all of the reasons as to why the race couldn't go ahead. We'll be back next year, stronger still.

Collecting race numbers.

Meanwhile, we've made the most of our holiday in NYC, and watched as the resilient New Yorkers bounced back; the subway resumed service (and my feet are ever so grateful), the power was restored downtown, and the empty streets came back to life. We've ventured about, visiting all of our favorite places and more. Today I want to share with you my day trip (1 1/2 hours each way by train) to Bridgeport, Connecticut - to the DS Sample Sale.

The Denyse Schmidt Sample Sale is an annual event held in Denyse's studio. When Audrie (Blue is Bleu) mentioned that the sale was on whilst we were here and also offered to pick us up from the train station, I jumped at the chance to check out the space where all things DS happen.

There were DS Quilts Fabrics ....

... and gorgeous, gorgeous quilts for sale

(see the quilt - second from the left? It is coming home with me. My first ever quilt purchase).

and more quilts ....

Denyse has a wonderful studio located in a quaint old, multi-storey factory, overflowing with natural light. To be in that space, surrounded by so much individuality and creativity has made me keen to return to my sewing machine. Refreshed.

Whilst there I also got to meet some warm and welcoming quilters/bloggers including Shannon, Jen and Jamie. Together with Audrie, we enjoyed a relaxing post sale lunch. I couldn't have asked for friendlier hosts!

I had a truly amazing day; a highlight, and I am excited to be heading home this week with a little DS memorabilia and renewed enthusiasm.

39 comments:

Thanks Rita for sharing that. I just checked out at the library the two books I know by Denyse Schmidt "Modern Quilts" and "Quilts" and actually, I could see in your pictures, quilts by DS that are featured in her most recent book. Amazing!

Great to see your pics Rita. I live here on the Hudson River but couldn't get to DS's sale because of transport damage from Sandy. I did get to see a number of the quilts in your photos at Quilters Take Manhattan a few weeks ago when Denyse was a guest speaker. Thanks for sharing and I hope to get there next year :)

That really looks so inspiring. I am sorry your husband wasn't able to run in the marathon I hope it is the cards next year for him. We are all thinking of the people still recovering from Sandy it must be quite an experience to be there through this.

I've been eyeing one of her patterns that you took a picture of.... the all white quilt with the pieced triangles. I LOVE that quilt and plan to make it one of these days. Loved seeing the pictures! Thanks.

Wow! Thanks for sharing the pictures from the DS sample sale. I am sorry you traveled so far for the marathon that wasn't, but very glad to hear that you got to N.Y safely and were still able to have a good visit.

I *almost* went to the DS Sample Sale, but purchased a 1951 15-91 Singer instead. Maybe next year. I was really curious about items offered other than the quilts. Was the fabric priced below regular retail? Congrats on your great purchase and your wonderful attitude about the Marathon. The timing really stunk on that!

Those quilt are beautiful- though yours are still my favorite!! Glad you had a wonderful vacation but I can't wait until you get back to your normal sewing routine so we can see more of your own beautiful quilting! :D

Looks like you were able to have fun despite Sandy. I just wondered, did you buy the quilt for a specific reason, like a gift or because of the colours used (it would go well with the guest room), or simply because you saw it and liked it?

I just got through reading all the way through your blog. Lots of inspiration and beautiful work. It's a shame about the marathon but I do think they made the right call on it. I was shocked when they announced at first that they were going ahead with it with so many people suffering and needing the services and resources. Your trip to Conn. was such a wonderful coincidence and a great opportunity. Funny that a prolific quilter like you would buy a quilt made by someone else. But it is Denyse Schmidt, after all! Who could resist? I think I saw that snake quilt in a magazine photo. Standing by from now on hoping to get in on a giveaway or two. Nancy

What a great trip for you Rita and how exciting to have gone to Denyse Schmidt's studio, just love her designs. Pity about the Marathon cancellation but they did the right thing. There is always next year. Safe travels and thanks for your great blog. Sandi

Lucky you!! I wanted to go, but decided against it as from Philadelphia it is a long day. You inspired me to make the Cladonia Shawl, including buying the Madelinetosh yarn that the pattern calls for. I started it twice with Koigu that I had, but was not happy with it. I love this yarn!